What has your career journey been like so far?
In 2016, I graduated from Cardiff Metropolitan University with a degree in BSc Environmental Health. I then spent some time working within the Environmental Health department of a local authority as a Graduate Environmental Health Officer. During my time within the local authority, I covered all areas of the Environmental Health service including public health, environmental protection, food safety, housing and health and safety. I really enjoyed the housing and the health and safety elements of the work, so when a job came up with CCHA within the Health and Safety department, I was really keen to apply and I was successful in securing the position.
Not long after I joined CCHA, I was moved into the newly formed Compliance Team, responsible for the landlord health, safety and compliance of all CCHA owned properties. I personally oversaw the management of asbestos, water safety and lifting equipment. I worked within this role for five years before I recently had the opportunity to become CCHAs Decarbonisation Project Officer. I am now responsible for delivering retrofit projects, improving homes, making them more comfortable and energy efficient whilst helping tenants save money on fuel bills.
What attracted you to work for a housing association?
I was attracted to the prospect of being able to be part of an organisation that’s soul focus is to make a positive difference. A career in housing can be challenging, but it is very rewarding.
What do you enjoy most about working for CCHA?
Any career highlights you’d like to celebrate?
I’m really proud to have been part of a hardworking and successful Compliance Team that has had many brilliant achievements over the years. I have been able to be a part of the Team from the very start and I have learnt so much along the way. I’m now proud to have progressed on to the next stage of my career and I am completing new qualifications to continue to challenge and develop myself.
What does your day to day look like?
It varies! At the moment, I’m spending quite a lot of time in the office, meeting with contractors and other stakeholders, as we are in the planning stage of our next project. However, in the coming weeks I will be mainly out on site visiting homes that are in the process of receiving energy efficiency measures, inspecting the work that is taking place, and completing health and safety audits and checks on our contractors ensuring the work is being completed to the required standard and that our residents are safe and happy with the outcomes.
What career tips would you give to someone wanting to pursue a similar career?
I think the one piece of advice I would give someone looking to work in this area is to be open minded. For example, when working for a housing association like CCHA, there are so many different job roles to explore, opportunities to take and chances for career progression. By considering each of these carefully, it can help shape your career, opening doors you may not have considered. You never know what might come along and surprise you.